Invisalign: The Invisible Braces

Each year there are thousands of people who go in for a regular checkup at the dentist only to be informed that they need to be referred to an orthodontist. A dentist can only do so much to keep your teeth healthy, but when it comes to needing an orthodontist; chances are you have a problem that requires some sort of long term corrective treatment.

In the past, many people were scared to hear the word orthodontist because that meant they were going to end up with a mouth full of silver wires. Nobody wanted to be called metal face or zipper mouth, but that was the only way to correct an overbite, certain speech impediments and realign misaligned teeth. Metal braces were also very uncomfortable, especially if you were just getting them put in. The most common complaints were severe headaches, scrapped up lips, tongue and gums and hurting teeth because of how tight they were. And every time a readjustment had to be made (usually every six months) children and some adults would cringe and cry at the thought of having to sit in the chair while the orthodontist checked to make sure that everything in your treatment was proceeding as planned.

With the invention of invisalign, the horror stories of the past are no more. If you are in need of braces, you can get these clear braces put on your teeth and no one will even know unless you tell them. They are practically invisible and they can do the same corrective techniques that the metal wire braces did. Now when children hear they are going to the dentist to get braces, once they find out they are getting invisalign; you don't hear any complaints or see any tears.

Anyone who is considering invisalign should have impeccable dental hygiene. You should avoid eating too much sugar or drinking too many sodas because that can lead to cavities. Brush your teeth religiously at least twice a day and if possible after each meal. Your teeth are more likely to develop cavities because your teeth do not come in contact with saliva while you are wearing your invisalign. Make sure that you keep all of your scheduled dental appointments. If you have any form of dental prosthetic, you will have more dental visits than usual.

If you decide that you are interested in getting invisalign, talk with your dentist. Many dentists are now able to fit their patients with invisible braces, because of the advancements in technology. Not everyone is a good candidate; however there are other options available so you don't have to get those ugly metal wire braces. Ask your dentist what your options are and about any risks associated with those options. Don't forget to ask about how long each option will take to correct your teeth. Some methods will take longer than others and some dental problems will make you ineligible for invisible braces.